I recently realized I was becoming overly reliant on my peripheral, and forgetting that I needed to rely on myself before looking elsewhere for help. This might seem, negatively independent or isolationist but it’s more an idea of being aware of your own potential and taking full responsibility for following through with that potential.

Reliance is similar to trust in that it deals with trusting someone or something and knowing that they will be dependable. Reliance, much like trust, has to start with your self. Self trust/reliance is the essential first step in taking on a challenging task and being confident that you will be able to work through adversity and difficult situations.

The interesting thing about going out to competition is that you, and only you, have to execute to win and perform. No matter how much yelling or coaching you receive from the side, if you don’t execute you won’t win. The coaching or “possy” is a great support system, but ultimately you and only have to do the work and have to follow through during those challenging times.

In moments of discomfort and doubt, it’s easy to look for support and help from the periphery. Your friends, family, and coaches are usually the first to be there in support. It’s important to have someone there when you need them, especially in moments of doubt. A good coach with tell you to trust yourself. A great coach will help you figure out how to trust yourself.

Understanding where your doubts exist and how and why you should trust yourself, confidence begins to emerge. Confidence is an essential topic when dealing with peak performance, and will naturally grow the more you become in touch with yourself. Realizing how to be self reliant, how to acknowledge your fears and persevere happens with the help of an existing support system like your coaches, friends, and family. However, at the end of the day, it is essential to know that you must dig deep into your self to find inner confidence.